Walking Through What Feels Impossible

I have often been frozen by fear. Not so much stuck like a deer in headlights, but more like staying where I am comfortable. For example, when I was contemplating writing a book, I reminded myself that there are so many prize-winning authors and infamous self-help gurus.  I just knew that whatever I created would just get lost. The whole process of authorship can be so intimidating. The same can be said when a person wants to advance in their career. They know they are on the brink of something life changing, but they don’t take the opportunity. They believe it is impossible to achieve better. Why?

Remember that God often calls us into places that will stretch us. He does not always call the equipped. Instead, He equips the called. Hebrews 13:20-21 reminds us of this, “May the God of peace, who brought up from the dead the great shepherd of the sheep by the blood of the eternal covenant, Jesus our Lord, furnish you with all that is good, that you may do his will. May he carry out in you what is pleasing to him through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever [and ever]. Amen.” (usccb.org)

Joshua’s Impossible Moment

After the death of Moses, God commanded his assistant, Joshua, to lead the Israelites across the Jordan River into the Promised Land, promising to be with him just as He was with Moses.  Joshua 1:2-3 states, “Moses my servant is dead. So now, you and the whole people with you, prepare to cross the Jordan to the land that I will give the Israelites.  Every place where you set foot I have given you, as I promised Moses.” (usccb.org)  God gives a clear command as stated in Joshua 1:9, “I command you: be strong and steadfast! Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD, your God, is with you wherever you go.” (usccb.org) 

It was the relationship Joshua had developed with God that helped him to understand the Divine Command as well as the promises of support and success. God made promises of success that were dependent on his obedience. He needed to surrender his own wants to the desires and mandates of God. Joshua understood that God didn’t promise it would be easy. He promised His support and that it was possible.

Why God Allows “Impossible” Assignments

Why does God allow what seems to be impossible? We need to grow in our faith. Just like Hebrews 11:1 tells us, “Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.” (usccb.org) As humans, we need these experiences to teach us what is possible when we think things are impossible. God also uses situations that appear to be impossible to teach us to surrender to Him. 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us,  “but he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness. I will rather boast most gladly of my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may dwell with me.’”  (usccb.org)

Let us not forget that God wants us to align our calling. We are not necessarily supposed to live in comfort, but we are called to move. Impossible moments are often alignment invitations. My book, “Rise. Align. Shine. Living Boldly in Faith, Purpose and Joy,” outlines this internal journey for you. It walks you from recognizing who you were created to be, building your relationship with God and finally, encourages you to shine with purpose. God makes this journey possible.

What Courage Actually Looks Like

When the going gets tough, you need to be courageous. In impossible situations, courage is obedience in motion. Courage is taking the next step, while not seeing the whole staircase. It is trusting God’s character over your fear. It is surrender. In Isaiah 41:10 we are told, “Do not fear: I am with you; do not be anxious: I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” (usccb.org)

Although you may feel things are hopeless and impossible, you can offer that up to God  just as Psalm 56:2-3 guides you,  “Have mercy on me, God, for I am treated harshly; attackers press me all the day. My foes treat me harshly all the day; yes, many are my attackers.“ (usccb.org) Surrendering these feelings or emotions is a show of courage. They demonstrate trust in God. Courage is an act of surrender to who God is and what He has in store for you. You need to live in courage even when things may seem to be impossible.

Walk Through What Feels Impossible

Sometimes you need to walk through what feels impossible. Prepare for these times by practicing it. Identify one area that seems “impossible.” Next, replace “I can’t” with “God is with me.” Know He is with you. Feel He is with you. Finally, take one small, faithful step through or towards what feels impossible. 

For me, in my writing, the first step was posting regularly on social media. I then joined an anthology book, next I started writing for Patheos and wrote several articles for magazines followed by a few more anthologies, until I really listened and wrote my book. God was equipping me with each step I took. I needed to have faith that God was with me and working through me. Moving forward was not an option; it was something I needed to do. I needed to trust in Him and to surrender to Him. Now I have a foundation to move forward through other things that may seem impossible. I know they aren’t, because God is with  me.

Making the Impossible Possible

Remember that God does not call the equipped; He equips the called. The same God who stood with Joshua stands with you. Discern the movement you are trying to make. If it is a calling, not merely something you want fulfilled for yourself, God will stand by you and give you strength. He will put people in your path to help you and guide you. Opportunities to gain experience or new skills will arise for you. Doors will open.

 Let’s pray Joshua 1:9 together, “I command you: be strong and steadfast! Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD, your God, is with you wherever you go.” (usccb.org) Thank you Jesus for being my strength. Thank you Holy Spirit for guiding me through what may seem impossible. God, I am grateful for the talents and opportunities you have provided for me to live my purpose. Thank you God for being with me. Amen.